Occupational therapy is concerned with the assessment and treatment of patients suffering from mental, physical, emotional or developmental conditions that are negatively affecting their everyday lives. The therapy may take place in hospitals, community centres and clients’ own homes and is aimed at helping people work towards a more independent style of living
Occupational therapists and therapy assistants work with individuals, families and communities, addressing both domestic and work-related issues, as well as those affecting leisure and self care. The work covers a wide variety of duties, from supporting those suffering from depression to helping victims of accidents adapt to their disabilities
Registered occupational therapists would need to have completed a degree or postgraduate course in occupational therapy approved by the HPC (Health Professions Council). Salaries start between £21,000 and £27,000, rising to £40,000 with experience. Assistants, who play a more supportive role in the therapy and do not usually need any specific qualifications, start at around £13,000, which could increase to £21,500 over time. Head positions begin at £30,000.

• Being intuitive and creative
• Flexibility and good will
• Listening and teaching
• Organisation and administration
• Patience and motivation
• Prioritising and communication
• Professionalism and diversity
• Stress management and teamwork
• Time and patient management
• Tolerance and efficiency
• Writing reports and keeping records

Any programme pursued in Occupational Therapy must be approved by the Health Professionals Council. These courses should be degree level, like a Bachelors, Masters or Post Graduate degree. There is even a College of Occupational Therapists that is aligned with the British Association of Occupational Therapists.
Persons who are not able to start at the degree level may begin as Assistants and support workers. First they may gain training and certification from the relevant HNC, BTEC, or NVQ course. Students will need to cover areas in Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Communication, Psychology, Behavioural Science, Care Management, or Therapeutic Interventions.